Texas Longhorns Head Coach Steve Sarkisian Reflects on Building a Stronger Program
As the Texas Longhorns gear up for another season, Head Coach Steve Sarkisian is focused on building a program that can return to its former glory. The Longhorns, who have long been a powerhouse in college football, have experienced ups and downs in recent years, but Sarkisian’s leadership is beginning to show signs of growth. With the team poised to make a strong push for the top of the Big 12 and beyond, Sarkisian reflects on the process of rebuilding the program into a national contender.
Sarkisian, now in his third year at the helm of the Longhorns, has faced his share of challenges since taking over the program in 2021. The pressure of leading such a storied program has been palpable, but Sarkisian has remained steadfast in his commitment to developing the team both on and off the field. He’s been focused on fostering a culture of accountability, discipline, and consistency, all while improving the talent pool and developing a strong recruiting pipeline.
“We’re focused on building something that lasts,” Sarkisian said during a recent interview. “It’s not about quick fixes or immediate results; it’s about creating a program that will sustain success year in and year out. We’re taking the necessary steps to lay the foundation for that.”
A major part of Sarkisian’s philosophy has been centered on instilling confidence in his players. From quarterback development to creating a more balanced offensive attack, Sarkisian has worked diligently to build an offense that reflects his vision. The emergence of quarterback Quinn Ewers, who showed flashes of brilliance in his freshman year, is one example of Sarkisian’s ability to develop young talent. With the addition of key recruits and transfers, the team has become more competitive across all positions, particularly on offense and the defensive line.
The offensive line, an area that had been a weak point in previous seasons, has seen substantial improvements under Sarkisian’s watch. Offensive line coach Kyle Flood, a key hire by Sarkisian, has been instrumental in improving the team’s blocking schemes, while Sarkisian himself has emphasized the importance of balance in the offensive game plan. The Longhorns’ running game, once inconsistent, has also shown promise with the development of standout backs like Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson, who have flourished under Sarkisian’s system.
Defense has been another focal point for the Longhorns. Sarkisian has worked closely with defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski to implement a more aggressive defensive scheme. The results have been noticeable, as the Longhorns have developed one of the most disruptive front sevens in the Big 12, with standout defensive linemen and linebackers leading the charge. In particular, the secondary has shown great promise with the development of young cornerbacks and safeties.
But beyond the X’s and O’s, Sarkisian’s greatest strength might lie in his ability to connect with his players and build a cohesive team culture. Sarkisian emphasizes leadership development and the importance of mental toughness, something that he believes is crucial for the team’s success. He has built an environment where players feel they can grow, both as athletes and as individuals.
As the Longhorns prepare for the upcoming season, Sarkisian’s vision for the program is starting to take shape. While the road to the top of college football is long and filled with obstacles, Sarkisian is confident in the direction the program is headed. With a blend of talented recruits, experienced upperclassmen, and a coaching staff that is committed to developing every facet of the game, the Longhorns are poised to compete for championships in the near future.
“We’re not there yet, but we’re building something special,” Sarkisian said. “And when we get there, it’s going to be because we did it the right way.”
The Texas Longhorns’ future looks bright under Steve Sarkisian’s leadership, as the program continues to evolve and develop toward sustained success.